Improving student success and retention in first-year nursing through embedded tutor support

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Higher Education Pedagogy
• Student Support Services

Background:

• Students from diverse or equity backgrounds often face challenges in acquiring essential academic skills.
• Foundational subjects in undergraduate nursing degrees are critical for student success.
• The need for targeted support interventions for at-risk students is well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of an embedded support program on the academic performance of first-year undergraduate nursing students.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of specialized tutoring for students from equity backgrounds.
• To assess the influence of embedded support on student confidence and academic literacy skills.

Main Methods:

• The Embedded Tutor Program provided one-on-one online feedback on assessments to first-year nursing students.
• Registered nurse and academic embedded tutors offered support, with outreach to students at risk of failing.
• Statistical analyses (Pearson's Chi-squared, paired t-test) assessed grade distribution and cumulative marks; qualitative thematic analysis of survey feedback was also conducted.

Main Results:

• A significant positive shift in grades was observed for students utilizing embedded tutor support (p < 0.05).
• Students from equity groups experienced a significant increase in cumulative marks (9-17%) when engaging with tutors (p < 0.05).
• The majority of at-risk students receiving outreach support passed the subject, reporting enhanced academic literacy and confidence.

Conclusions:

• A collaborative educational approach involving subject convenors, embedded tutors, and student services positively impacts student learning experiences.
• Embedded support programs contribute to improved academic outcomes and the development of student self-efficacy.
• Student learning capacity encompasses not only grades and progression but also the growth of confidence and academic skills.